The Future of Vascular Care Innovations and Emerging Treatments

In recent years, vascular care has improved dramatically. Thanks to several innovative treatments, today’s patients enjoy less downtime, smaller incisions, and quicker recovery times. New technology and research emerge each year, so the future of vascular care looks bright.

Here are some of what to expect from today’s vascular care innovations.

What Kind of Care Do Vascular Surgeons Provide?

Vascular care addresses problems with both arteries and veins, from the large aorta to the smallest venules and capillaries. Common problems include blockages, narrowing, and weakening of blood vessels. These issues lead to serious conditions such as heart attack, stroke and life-threatening aneurysms.

To determine the extent and kind of vascular issue, the healthcare provider conducts a complete physical examination and review of symptoms and medical history. Then, the doctor may order sophisticated vascular imaging such as magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), computed tomography angiography (CTA), ultrasonography of the carotid arteries or others.

Because of today’s medical advances, vascular imaging gives doctors sharp still images of blood vessels. It can show how the veins and arteries work in real-time. In addition to imaging, a healthcare provider may also perform procedures that measure blood flow and pressure in different body parts, such as the kidneys.

Once the doctor arrives at a diagnosis, the vascular care team creates a treatment plan tailored to the patient’s needs. This may include lifestyle changes, medication, minimally invasive procedures, or surgery.

Frequently Seen Vascular Health Problems

One of the most common vascular health problems is peripheral arterial disease (PAD). PAD develops when fatty plaque builds up in the arteries, restricting blood flow to the legs and feet.

Another common issue is deep vein thrombosis (DVT). A patient with deep vein thrombosis has a blood clot in a vein, typically in a lower extremity.

If left untreated, DVT may cause serious complications, such as a pulmonary embolism. This is a potentially fatal condition in which a blood clot from the leg breaks off and travels to the lungs.

New Technologies in Vascular Care

One of the most exciting advancements in vascular care is the use of minimally invasive operative procedures. These procedures involve small incisions or, sometimes, no incisions at all. Minimally invasive procedures reduce the risk of complications and promote faster recovery times.

For example, endovascular surgery involves inserting a thin catheter into a diseased artery or vein. The vascular surgeon uses this catheter to install stents or other devices to open the blocked blood vessels.

Another emerging technology is stem cell therapy for small blood vessels damaged by diabetes and other health conditions. This therapy injects adult human stem cells into the damaged area. The regenerative properties of the stem cells promote new blood vessel growth and improve circulation.

Overall, these advancements in vascular care–and others–have greatly improved the diagnosis and treatment of vascular conditions. They continue to revolutionize patient care and improve health and wellness.

Vascular Surgery in Wooster, OH

If you need top-notch vascular services, contact Wooster Community Hospital. Our Vascular Rehabilitation program is a comprehensive treatment program specifically designed to treat those with a range of circulation issues affecting the legs and lower extremities. Dr. Eric Turney is our prime expert in vascular surgery. If you need vascular treatment, you can rest assured you are in good hands with Dr. Turney.

To learn more about the advancements in vascular care or to arrange a consultation, contact Wooster Community Hospital at (330) 263-8575 or use our appointment request form.

We look forward to serving you!